At least 15 people have died and several others are feared trapped after a massive landslide struck a private bus in India's northern state of Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at approximately 4:00 PM EAT (6:30 PM Indian Standard Time). The bus was traveling on a hilly stretch near Bilaspur district when it was hit by debris following days of torrential rains.

Rescue operations, which were initially hampered by intermittent rainfall and poor visibility, resumed early Wednesday morning, October 8, 2025. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local police, fire personnel, home guards, and volunteers are working at the site, utilizing JCBs and dog squads to search for survivors amidst the significant debris.

Historical and Political Context

Landslides are a recurring and severe hazard in Himachal Pradesh, particularly during the annual monsoon season, which typically runs from June to September. The ecologically fragile Himalayan states frequently experience such events, with experts noting an increase in extreme weather incidents in recent years.

In 2025 alone, Himachal Pradesh has incurred losses estimated at ₹4,079 crore (approximately KES 6.5 billion) due to cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides between June 20 and September 7. Over 366 people have died in rain-related incidents and road accidents in the state during this period, with 42 deaths directly attributed to landslides.

Laws/Policy and Governance

Following the incident, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed deep sorrow and anguish, directing officials to expedite rescue and relief operations. He also ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident and assured that comprehensive arrangements would be made for the treatment and care of the injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered his condolences and announced an ex-gratia relief of ₹2 lakh (approximately KES 3,200) from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased, and ₹50,000 (approximately KES 800) for those injured.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The bus, carrying between 25 and 35 passengers, was en route from Marotan to Ghumarwin when the landslide occurred in the Balughat area of the Jhanduta sub-division. Among the deceased are the bus driver and conductor. Two children, aged five and 12, were rescued with minor injuries and are currently stable after being shifted to AIIMS, Bilaspur.

Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene as the vehicle was quickly buried under tons of rocks and earth, leaving little time for reaction. Local residents were among the first responders, assisting with initial rescue efforts before official teams arrived.

Evidence/Data

• Confirmed Deaths: At least 15 individuals (as of Wednesday, October 8, 2025).
• Injured: Two children, aged 5 and 12, sustained minor injuries and are stable.
• Passengers on Bus: Between 25 and 35.
• Location: Balughat area, Jhanduta sub-division, Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh, India.
• Time of Incident: Approximately 4:00 PM EAT (6:30 PM IST) on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
• Cause: Massive landslide triggered by torrential rains.
• Compensation: ₹2 lakh for deceased, ₹50,000 for injured (Prime Minister's National Relief Fund).

Risks/Implications

The incident underscores the persistent dangers of landslides in Himachal Pradesh, particularly during the monsoon season. The region's fragile mountain slopes are highly susceptible to instability caused by heavy rainfall, leading to significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure.

Unknowns and Controversies

The exact total number of passengers on the bus at the time of the landslide remains unconfirmed, and rescue operations are ongoing to determine if more individuals are trapped under the debris. While some reports indicated a higher death toll of 18, official statements from the local government and Chief Minister's office confirmed 15 fatalities.

Timeline and Next Steps

Rescue operations are continuing through Wednesday, October 8, 2025, with efforts focused on recovering any remaining victims and clearing the debris. Post-mortems of the recovered bodies are being conducted at Berthin Hospital, and bodies are expected to be handed over to families by late Wednesday morning.

What to Watch

Authorities will continue to monitor weather patterns, as intermittent rains can further complicate rescue efforts and pose additional risks of landslides. The magisterial inquiry will aim to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and may inform future policy adjustments for road safety in landslide-prone areas.